Report

Equipment’s used in Grid Station

Designed by: Rana Muhammad Uzair

 Content

 Power Transformers (PTs)

 Current Transformers (CTs)
 Voltage Transformers (VTs)
 Pad Mounted Transformer
 Auxiliary Transformers
 Circuit breakers
 Busbars
 Isolators (Disconnect Switches)
 Lightning Arresters
 Earthing (Grounding) Equipment
 Capacitor Banks
 Reactors
 Control Panels
 Relays
 Energy meter
 Surge Protectors
 Wave Traps
 Neutral Grounding Resistors
 Battery Banks and Chargers
 Power Cables and Connectors
 SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) Systems
Power Transformers:
A power transformer is an essential electrical device used to convert
voltage levels while maintaining the same frequency. Its primary function is to step up the voltage
for efficient long-distance transmission or step it down for distribution to consumers. Power
transformers come in two main types: step-up, which increases voltage, and step-down, which
decreases it, depending on the requirements of the electrical network. They are built with a
magnetic core, copper windings, and insulation to facilitate efficient energy transfer between
circuits. Cooling systems, like air, oil, or water, are used to manage the heat produced during
operation, ensuring the transformer operates efficiently.

Current Transformers (CTs):

A current transformer (CT) is a device used to measure and
monitor the current in high-voltage power systems, stepping down the current to safer, more
manageable levels for instruments and protection systems. It operates by inducing a current in a
secondary winding proportional to the current flowing in the primary conductor. CTs are used for
metering, relaying, and protection purposes in electrical networks, ensuring that high currents can
be measured without directly exposing instruments to the high-voltage environment. They play a
critical role in monitoring electrical systems for faults and ensuring safe operation by isolating the
measurement and protection circuits from the high-voltage side of the system.
Voltage Transformers (VTs):
A voltage transformer (VT), also known as a potential
transformer (PT), is a device designed to reduce high voltages to lower, safer levels for metering
and protection in electrical systems. It works by stepping down the voltage in the primary winding
and delivering a proportionally lower voltage to the secondary winding. VTs are commonly used
in high-voltage power grids to provide accurate voltage measurements for control and monitoring
systems. These transformers are essential in ensuring the safe operation of electrical instruments
by isolating them from the high-voltage lines. They also aid in maintaining system stability and
detecting abnormalities in voltage levels.

Pad Mounted Transformer:

A pad-mounted transformer is a ground-level, enclosed
electrical transformer used in distribution systems to step down high-voltage electricity for
residential or commercial use. It is housed in a secure, weatherproof metal cabinet placed on a
concrete pad, making it ideal for outdoor installation in urban and suburban areas. These
transformers are connected to underground power lines, enhancing safety and aesthetics by
eliminating the need for overhead lines. Pad-mounted transformers are designed for easy
maintenance and provide power to neighborhoods or industrial areas with minimal visual impact.
They also feature safety mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access and ensure safe operation.
Auxiliary Transformers:
An auxiliary transformer is a smaller transformer used to supply
power to the auxiliary equipment within a larger electrical system, such as in power plants or
substations. It typically steps down the high voltage from the main power system to lower levels
required for operating lighting, pumps, fans, control systems, and other essential machinery. By
providing a dedicated power source for these auxiliary loads, the transformer ensures smooth and
reliable operation of the entire facility. Auxiliary transformers are designed to handle smaller loads
compared to main power transformers but are crucial for maintaining system reliability and safety
in large electrical infrastructures.
Circuit breakers:
A circuit breaker is a crucial safety device in electrical systems, designed to
automatically interrupt the flow of electricity when a fault, such as a short circuit or overload, is
detected. It operates by detecting abnormal current levels and immediately opening its contacts to
stop the flow of electricity, preventing damage to the system and reducing the risk of fire or
equipment failure. Unlike a fuse, a circuit breaker can be reset manually or automatically after the
fault is cleared, making it reusable. Circuit breakers are widely used in residential, commercial,
and industrial settings to protect electrical circuits and ensure safe operation. They come in various
types, such as air, oil, vacuum, or gas-insulated, depending on the voltage and application.

Busbars:
Busbars are metallic bars or strips, typically made of copper or aluminum, used in
electrical power distribution to conduct and distribute large amounts of electricity within a
substation, switchgear, or electrical panel. They provide a central point where power is collected
from incoming lines and distributed to outgoing circuits, acting as a junction for multiple
connections. Busbars are designed to carry high current loads efficiently, minimizing energy losses
due to their low electrical resistance and high conductivity. They are essential in electrical systems
because they simplify the design, reduce wiring complexity, and enhance the system's capacity to
handle large amounts of power while maintaining reliability and safety. Busbars are usually
enclosed in insulated casings to prevent accidental contact and ensure safety.
Isolators (Disconnect Switches):
Isolators, also known as disconnect switches, are
mechanical devices used in electrical systems to physically disconnect a portion of the circuit when
maintenance, inspection, or repairs are required. They provide a visible and secure open gap in the
circuit, ensuring that the equipment is completely de-energized before work is performed. Isolators
are typically used in conjunction with circuit breakers, which handle the interruption of current
flow under load, while the isolator ensures a clear disconnection after the circuit is already de-
energized.
These switches are manually operated and do not have arc-extinguishing capability, so they are only
operated when there is no load or current flowing. Isolators are crucial for the safety of maintenance
personnel, ensuring that sections of a power system are fully isolated and protected from accidental re-
energization.
Lightning Arresters:
Lightning arrestors are protective devices used in electrical systems to
shield equipment from high-voltage surges caused by lightning strikes or other transient voltage
spikes. They are typically installed at strategic points, such as on transmission lines, substations,
and transformers, to divert the excess voltage safely to the ground, preventing it from damaging
the system. When a lightning strike or surge occurs, the arrestor acts as a path of least resistance,
allowing the high-voltage surge to bypass sensitive equipment and discharge harmlessly into the
earth.

Earthing (Grounding) Equipment:

Earthing equipment, or grounding equipment, is
essential for connecting electrical systems to the ground to ensure safety and prevent electrical
shock hazards. It typically includes grounding rods, plates, and conductors made of conductive
materials like copper or aluminum. Grounding rods are driven into the earth to provide a low-
resistance path for fault currents, while plates increase the surface area for grounding. This
connection helps dissipate stray voltages, stabilizes voltage levels, and protects sensitive
equipment from surges. Overall, earthing equipment is crucial for the safety and reliability of
electrical installations.
Capacitor Banks:
Capacitor banks are collections of multiple capacitors connected in parallel
or series, used in electrical power systems to improve power factor and enhance the stability of
voltage levels. By storing and releasing electrical energy, these banks help compensate for reactive
power demand in inductive loads, such as motors and transformers, thereby reducing the overall
demand on the power supply. This compensation leads to improved efficiency, reduced energy
costs, and minimized losses in the distribution network. Capacitor banks can also help mitigate
voltage fluctuations and enhance the performance of the electrical system. They are commonly
used in industrial, commercial, and utility applications to optimize power quality and support the
grid.

Reactors:
Reactors are electrical devices used in power systems to manage and control the flow
of electrical energy, primarily by introducing inductance into the circuit. They serve various
functions, including limiting short-circuit currents, improving voltage stability, and providing
reactive power support. Reactors can be categorized into two main types: series reactors, which
are connected in series with a circuit to limit current and protect equipment, and shunt reactors,
which are connected in parallel to absorb reactive power and help regulate voltage levels in
transmission lines. By doing so, they enhance the overall efficiency and reliability of electrical
systems, making them essential components in substations, industrial plants, and power
transmission networks.
Control Panels:
Control panels are critical components in electrical systems that house controls,
instruments, and displays used to manage and monitor machinery or electrical equipment. They
provide a centralized location for operators to control processes, making it easier to start, stop, and
adjust equipment settings. Typically, control panels include various switches, buttons, meters, and
indicator lights that provide real-time information about system performance and status. They can
be found in various applications, including industrial settings, power plants, and commercial
buildings, serving as the interface between human operators and automated systems. By organizing
and simplifying control functions, control panels enhance operational efficiency, safety, and
system reliability.
Relays:
Relays are electromagnetic switches used in electrical circuits to control the flow of
electricity. They operate by using an electromagnet to mechanically open or close contacts,
allowing or interrupting the current in a circuit based on specific conditions, such as voltage or
current levels. Relays are widely used for various applications, including automation, protection,
and control systems, where they enable remote switching and provide safety features by
disconnecting loads during fault conditions. Different types of relays exist, including
electromagnetic, solid-state, and thermal relays, each designed for specific tasks and performance
requirements. By providing isolation between the control circuit and the load circuit, relays help
protect sensitive components and ensure reliable operation in electrical systems.

Energy meter:
An energy meter is a device used to measure the amount of electrical energy
consumed by a residential, commercial, or industrial facility. It quantifies energy usage in kilowatt-
hours (kWh) and is typically installed at the point of connection to the electrical grid. Energy
meters can be electromechanical, using a rotating disc to measure consumption, or digital, which
use electronic components for more precise measurements and additional features. Modern smart
energy meters can also provide real-time data on energy usage, enabling users to monitor and
manage their consumption more effectively. By tracking energy usage, these meters help
consumers understand their energy habits, leading to better efficiency and cost savings.
Surge Protector :
A surge protector is an electrical device designed to protect sensitive
electronic equipment from voltage spikes or surges, such as those caused by lightning strikes,
power outages, or sudden changes in electricity flow. It works by diverting excess voltage away
from the connected devices, allowing the current to safely pass through while preventing damage
to electronics. Surge protectors can be standalone devices, power strips with built-in surge
protection, or integrated into electrical panels. They typically feature indicators that show when
the device is functioning properly and when it needs replacement. By safeguarding appliances and
equipment, surge protectors play a crucial role in maintaining the longevity and reliability of
electrical systems.
Wave Traps:
Wave traps, also known as line traps, are devices used in electrical power systems
to filter out high-frequency signals from communication systems, preventing them from interfering
with transmission lines. Installed on overhead power lines, they block unwanted high-frequency
transients while allowing the fundamental power frequency (typically 50 or 60 Hz) to pass through.
Wave traps resonate at specific frequencies, reflecting high-frequency signals back to their source.
This ensures that communication signals used in tele-protection and monitoring systems remain
intact. By maintaining signal integrity, wave traps enhance the reliability and safety of power
transmission systems.

Neutral Grounding Resistors:

Neutral grounding resistors (NGRs) are devices used in
electrical power systems to connect the neutral point of a transformer or generator to ground
through a resistor. Their primary function is to limit the fault current during an ungrounded system
fault, such as a phase-to-ground fault, thus preventing damage to equipment and ensuring system
stability. By controlling the amount of current that can flow to the ground, NGRs help reduce the
risk of equipment failure and electrical hazards. Additionally, they allow for continued operation
of the system during a fault condition, facilitating quicker fault detection and isolation. NGRs are
essential in maintaining the safety and reliability of electrical systems, particularly in industrial
and utility applications.
Battery Banks and Chargers:
Battery banks are collections of batteries connected together
to store electrical energy for backup power and stabilize electrical supply during outages or peak
demand periods. They can use various battery types, such as lead-acid or lithium-ion, depending
on application needs. Chargers are devices that replenish the energy in these battery banks,
converting AC or DC power into the appropriate charging voltage and current. They ensure safe
and efficient charging, preventing overcharging or undercharging that could damage the batteries.
Together, battery banks and chargers are essential for reliable energy management in systems like
renewable energy, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and electric vehicles.
Power cables and connectors:
Power cables and connectors are essential components in
electrical systems that facilitate the transmission of electrical energy. Power cables are made of
conductive materials, such as copper or aluminum, and are insulated to ensure safety and protect
against environmental factors. They come in various sizes and configurations to accommodate
different voltage levels and current capacities. Connectors are devices that securely join electrical
circuits, allowing for easy installation and maintenance while ensuring stable connections.
Together, power cables and connectors ensure the efficient and safe delivery of electricity in
residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) Systems:

SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems are industrial control systems used
to monitor and manage processes across various industries, including electricity, water, oil and
gas, and manufacturing. These systems enable operators to collect real-time data from sensors and
devices distributed throughout a facility or infrastructure, allowing for centralized monitoring and
control. SCADA systems consist of hardware components, such as sensors and programmable
logic controllers (PLCs), and software for data analysis, visualization, and reporting.
 By providing a user-friendly interface, SCADA systems allow operators
to visualize system performance, detect anomalies, and respond quickly to issues, enhancing
operational efficiency and safety. They also facilitate remote control of processes, enabling
operators to manage operations from a centralized location. Overall, SCADA systems play a
crucial role in automating and optimizing industrial processes, leading to improved productivity
and reduced operational costs.